France and Total seek to continue Rwandan military mission in Mozambique after EU funding ends (euobserver.com)

• EU funding for Rwandan mission in Mozambique ends 31 May 2026.
• France and TotalEnergies seek alternative financing to maintain troop presence protecting LNG project.
• Rwanda's foreign minister claims funding secured, but troops reportedly unpaid.
• US sanctions on RDF, France urges continued engagement.

"The EU's €20 million annual funding for the Rwandan Defence Force mission in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique ends 31 May 2026. France and TotalEnergies are seeking alternative financing to maintain the deployment, which protects Total's $25 billion LNG project. The EU stated it received no formal request for further assistance. Rwanda's foreign minister claimed Mozambique secured funds, but diplomatic sources indicate RDF troops are owed over $20 million. The US has imposed sanctions on the RDF. French President Macron urged against isolating Rwanda and visited Kenya to strengthen ties."